Back-to-School Morning Routine Tips for a Calmer Start
New backpacks, sharpened pencils… and total morning chaos? Back-to-school season is exciting, but it can also be a lot. The good news is, with a few simple tweaks (and a little morning calm), you can make school mornings smoother for everyone.
1. Simplify, simplify, simplify
In the Simplifying Your Routine & Managing the Chaos of Back-to-School episode of the No One Told Us podcast, Educator Beth Rosenbleeth shares her favorite trick: set things up the night before so you’re not racing around at 7 a.m. Clothes laid out, lunches packed, backpacks by the door = less rushing, more breathing. Bonus? Have your child make small choices like picking out their outfit to give a small sense of control. She also swears by “breakfast invitations”... setting out something engaging (like fruit and cereal with fun toppings, or a doodle pad) to keep kids busy and happy at the table.
2. Show, don’t just tell
A visual schedule (think: simple chart with pictures for “get dressed,” “eat breakfast,” “brush teeth”) can be a game-changer. Kids know exactly what’s next, and you do less reminding… or repeating… or begging. They can even check off each item as they go, making it more fun and engaging!
3. Add a calm moment
You don’t have to go straight from bed to hurry-mode. In the Mindfulness Stories for Sleep episode on No One Told Us, I talk all about how short, mindful stories can help kids feel calmer and more confident. Try playing a Goldminds story from our Before School Calm series...Gary the Goat's Great Day, Beau The Bear Goes to School (a fan favorite for this time of year!) The Magic Mermaid, The Magic Shop, The Fox Goes to School.....should I continue? We have SO many more to choose from too, based on your child's age and interests.
4. Keep breakfast easy
Save the pancakes for the weekend. On school days, go for simple, nutritious options your kids can help make like yogurt with fruit, toast with nut butter, or overnight oats. Allowing them to choose a couple of fun toppings like granola, fruit, nuts, chia seeds or even some sprinkles can go a long way too!
5. Create a “launch pad”
Pick a spot near the door for backpacks, shoes, and water bottles, and use things like big baskets or bins to keep things contained. Everything in one place means fewer “WHERE’S MY…” moments right as you’re trying to walk out the door.
School mornings will never be perfect, but with a little prep, a clear plan, and a sprinkle of mindfulness, they can feel a whole lot calmer and maybe even fun.
Download the Goldminds app and press play on The Confident Cow Girl or Max's Big Game, or another mindful morning favorite tomorrow. Your hot coffee will thank you.